matador
/mataˈdoɾ/masculine
The Spanish word matador means bullfighter. Wiktionary also lists torero.
Meaning: bullfighter (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| matador | /mataˈdoɾ/ | masculine |
| torero | /toˈɾeɾo/ | masculine |
A matador is a bullfighter.
Which one should you use?
While torero is a general term for any bullfighter, matador specifically refers to the most skilled bullfighter who performs the final act of killing the bull.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine form of matador is matadora.
How do you pronounce it?
/mataˈdoɾ/
Did you know?
- The matador typically wears a 'traje de luces', which translates to 'suit of lights' because of the gold and silver embroidery that glitters in the sun.
- In some contexts, the term matador is used colloquially in Spanish to describe someone who is exceptionally good at a specific task or sport.
- The word matador is derived from the verb matar, which means 'to kill'.
Examples in context
- El matador demostró una gran destreza en la plaza de toros.The matador showed great skill in the bullring.
- Ese matador es muy valiente, ¿verdad?That matador is very brave, isn't he?
- El matador es muy valiente.The bullfighter is very brave.
- Vi al matador en la plaza.I saw the bullfighter in the square.
- El matador lleva un traje elegante.The bullfighter wears an elegant suit.
Example conversation
María and Javier are watching a documentary about Spain.
- MaríaMira, ese matador es muy valiente.Look, that bullfighter is very brave.
- JavierSí, tiene mucha experiencia en la plaza.Yes, he has a lot of experience in the arena.
- MaríaSu traje de luces es hermoso.His suit of lights is beautiful.
- JavierEs la ropa tradicional del matador.It is the traditional clothing of the bullfighter.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “matador” translations and entries matador, torero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries matador, torero, CC BY-SA 4.0.
